Dareu Aqua vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, there are distinct differences in their characteristics. The Aqua stands out with its super light 37g actuation force, providing a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature, making it a great option for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch doesn't have any standout features mentioned. The Aqua is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Feathery', while the Milk Tea doesn't have any specific categorizations. If you're looking for a switch that offers a light touch and distinctive sound, the Aqua might be the way to go. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Aqua and Outemu Milk Tea switches share a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a more clear and resonant sound due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that are intended to be used with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Milk Tea's Ly top housing provides a very bright sound signature, offering resonant clacks when typing.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Aqua and Milk Tea switches feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. As a result, both the Aqua and Milk Tea switches will likely provide a satisfying typing experience with their nylon bottom housings.
While the top housing materials differentiate the Aqua and Milk Tea switches, the bottom housing material remains consistent with nylon for both. This means that although the sound profiles may vary slightly due to the different top housings, the overall typing experience will be similar in terms of the deeper and fuller sound created by the nylon bottom housing. Whether you prefer the crisper sound of the Aqua's polycarbonate top housing or the bright sound of the Milk Tea's Ly top housing, both switches offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Aqua easier to trigger keystrokes with. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown, so it may be similar or different. When it comes to weight preference, some users may prefer the Aqua switch for its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Milk Tea switch with its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This can result in a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch you choose. The similar travel distance of both switches can provide a familiar feel and feedback to users, allowing for a seamless transition between the two switches. Overall, whether you prefer the linear feel of the Aqua switch or the tactile feedback of the Milk Tea switch, you can expect a comparable travel distance with either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
The Outemu Milk Tea comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
The Dareu Aqua linear switch is known for its unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature, offering a distinctive auditory experience for users who prefer a lighter touch. The chirpy sound adds a hint of a squeak, setting it apart from other switches, while the clacky sound provides a sharp and snappy tone when pressed. On the other hand, information on the sound of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch is unavailable, so it is recommended to test it out with different setups to determine the overall sound profile.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Aqua is described as providing an easy-to-press sensation with a feather-light touch due to its 37g actuation force. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The feathery nature of the switch ensures minimal exertion from the fingers, enhancing the overall typing experience. Unfortunately, information on the tactile feel of the Outemu Milk Tea switch is not provided, making it challenging to make a direct comparison.
Overall, both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Aquas stand out with their distinctive sound profile and light actuation force, the Milk Tea switches have their own tactile feel that may appeal to users looking for a different typing experience. Ultimately, the best switch for an individual will depend on their personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing style. For those seeking a similar light and tactile typing experience, the Dareu Aqua linear switch may provide a comparable alternative to the Outemu Milk Tea switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a tactile bump and a heavier actuation force, the Outemu Milk Tea switch might better suit your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the feel and sound profile that best enhances your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
